How To Pick A Therapist (It’s easier than you think)
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As therapy for mental health has risen in popularity over the years, more people have expressed frustration in selecting a therapist. But as we know, selecting a mental health professional can be a pivotal step towards improving your mental well-being. Given the wide array of therapists, counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists available, it can be overwhelming to decide who might be the best fit for you.
Here are five essential tips to help you make an informed decision.
1— Understand the Different Types of Mental Health Professionals
Before beginning your search, it’s important to understand the different types of mental health professionals and what they offer:
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication. They often treat complex mental health issues that may require medication, such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I went to a psychiatrist once and in my first meeting she prescribed 5 different medications - sleeping pills, downers, uppers, anti-anxiety. It was a whole smorgasbord. This happened after our first visit. At that time I was suffering from mild depression. I didn’t have a chronic problem but she was quick to pull out her prescription pad instead of trying to find out what was wrong with me. For that reason, I do not go to psychiatrists.
Psychologists typically have a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. They are trained in therapy, psychological testing, and research. They cannot prescribe medication in most states.
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) or Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) have a master’s degree and are trained to provide therapy for a variety of issues. They focus on talk therapy and are often more affordable.
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) specialize in issues related to relationships, marriage, and family dynamics.
Understanding these differences can help you identify which type of professional might best suit your needs.
My favorite therapists to utilize are LCSWs, LPCs or MFTs. They have a broad range of specialities and seem genuinely interested to help.
I found TherapyforBlackGirls.com to be an excellent resource as well as Psychology Today. You can type in your city and state or even your zip code and all kinds of therapists pop up. Both sites are easy to navigate and they’re free.
2— Consider Your Specific Needs and Goals
Identify your specific needs and goals for seeking therapy. Are you dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or something else?
Your reasons for seeking therapy can guide you in finding a professional who specializes in those areas. For example, if you’re dealing with trauma, a therapist who specializes in trauma and PTSD would be beneficial. If you’re seeking help with relationship issues, a marriage and family therapist might be more appropriate.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
What are the main issues I want to address in therapy?
Do I need someone who specializes in a specific area (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships)?
What are my goals for therapy?
Don’t be afraid to share what you are experiencing. Your therapist can’t help you if they don’t know what you’re really dealing with.
Tools You Can Use Before Going To Your Therapist
3— Check Credentials and Experience
Ensure that the mental health professional you’re considering is properly licensed and accredited. Licensing requirements vary by state, but a licensed professional will have met specific educational and clinical training standards. Additionally, check their experience in treating issues similar to yours.
Questions to Ask the Professional:
What are your qualifications and areas of expertise?
How many years of experience do you have in this field?
Do you have experience treating clients with issues similar to mine?
The last question is very important and one that I ask my therapists in the interview process. I want therapists with experience with what I’m dealing with because it gives me confidence that I can be helped.
There are all sorts of review sites and mechanisms on the internet. Look at reviews before selecting someone. The information is there to help you make a decision.
4— Consider Logistics: Location, Availability, and Cost
Logistical factors such as location, availability, and cost are crucial when choosing a mental health professional. You need to find someone whose practice is conveniently located, whose schedule aligns with yours, and whose fees are within your budget.
Location: Choose a therapist who is either close to your home or work, or consider online therapy options if in-person sessions are inconvenient.
Availability: Ensure the therapist has availability that matches your schedule. Some therapists may have long waiting lists.
Cost: Therapy can be expensive, so check if the therapist accepts your insurance or offers a sliding scale fee based on your income.
Questions to Ask:
Do you offer in-person or online sessions?
What are your hours of availability?
Do you accept my insurance, or do you offer a sliding scale fee?
There have been so many online therapy sites that have popped up over the last several years. We have more options now than we ever did. The key is to do your homework in trying to find a person who can address your needs and your budget.
Personal Disclaimer: I have not used an online therapy service so I cannot recommend them. But, I encourage you to look at the reviews and see what their customers are saying.
5— Trust Your Instincts and Seek a Good Fit
The therapeutic relationship is built on trust and rapport. It’s essential to feel comfortable and understood by your therapist. During initial consultations, pay attention to how you feel in their presence. Do you feel heard and respected? Is the therapist empathetic and non-judgmental? A good fit between you and your therapist can significantly impact the effectiveness of your therapy.
Questions to Reflect On:
Do I feel comfortable talking to this therapist?
Does the therapist seem to understand and empathize with my concerns?
Are you dealing with a male therapist who is not empathetic to what a woman may go through? Do you have a Christian therapist who is pushing their ideology on you? If you don’t feel comfortable, you have the wrong therapist. I cannot say this enough.
Do I feel respected and validated?
Over the years, I’ve worked with several different therapists. I have connected to some more than others. Choosing the right mental health professional is a crucial step in your journey towards better mental health.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to consult with a few different therapists before finding the one that feels right for you.
Some research for this story was provided by AI.
